This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and details on what you'd like to donate, and if we have a need (we likely will), we'll let you know when you can drop off your items.
The Bicycle Exchange will gladly accept most bikes and refurbish them to benefit those in need of transportation or sell them to cover operating costs.
We are happy to accept your donation of complete bicycles, bicycle parts, or bicycle accessories. The Silicon Valley Bicycle Exchange is a Section 501c(3) non-profit organization, so your donation is tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Please email us a photo of what you'd like to donate and we'll give you details of drop-off times and procedures.
Debating on whether you should fix up that old bike? Often your tax-deductible bike donation makes more financial sense than spending hundreds on repair work and parts. When you drop off your donation, you could also consider buying one of our nice, ready-to-ride refurbished bikes!
Most bikes get refurbished and are then donated to our partner charities. Some bikes are sold to fund our repair parts and operations.
Donation Guidelines
We accept bikes of all types and sizes, from tricycles up to full-sized bicycles for adults. Flat tires and broken or missing parts are no problem, as we have an extensive parts inventory. Our volunteer mechanics can fix almost anything; however, we don't restore paint and we can't reverse corrosion. We accept department store kids' bikes, but most budget adult bikes from department stores are problematic because replacement parts are hard to find.
Before donating your bike, ask yourself:
- Could an experienced mechanic make this bike functional and safe in one hour or less?
- Is the bike substantially free of rust and corrosion?
- Is the bike clean enough that you could offer it as a gift without embarrassment?
If the answers are all "yes" then we'll gladly receive the bike. Please clean up your bike before donating it so we can focus on repairs. We also accept monetary donations.
Each bicycle takes about $40 and several volunteer hours to repair and distribute. A monetary donation to cover these costs is appreciated and will keep the cycle going. You're also welcome to stay and volunteer when donating a bike. You'll learn mechanic skills while having fun and giving back.
While the vast majority of our bikes are donated to those in need of transportation, racing bikes, vintage bikes or mountain bikes are gladly accepted and could help us fund our refurbishing of many additional bikes for our partner nonprofits.
We do not accept used helmets or cycling shorts.
For valuable, high-end donations, we might be able to arrange a pick-up.
Where to Donate Your Bike
Our workshop is located at 3961 East Bayshore Road in Palo Alto. East Bayshore runs east of and parallels Highway 101 between San Antonio and Oregon Expressway. Please enter via Corporation Way. Go all the way around to the rear of the building and look for the roll-up door. DO NOT drop off any donations when the facility is closed.
When to Donate Your Bike
Please contact us with a picture and any details about your bike donation. We'll likely take it and give you details of drop-off times. We do not typically do pick-ups, but for large collections or high-value items, we may.
Contact Us
Click here to contact us, if you have any questions regarding your donation.